Virus postpones May’s Iowa Peace Officer Memorial Ceremony

The Iowa Peace Officer Memorial Ceremony that was scheduled for Friday, May 8 but has been postponed, according to a statement issued Thursday by the Iowa Department of Public Safety. Photo courtesy IDPS

DES MOINES, Iowa — The novel coronavirus global pandemic has caused the cancellation or postponement of many public events honoring National Police Week 2020 in Washington D.C. and across the nation.

Among the ceremonial victims of the virus is the Iowa Peace Officer Memorial Ceremony that was scheduled for Friday, May 8 but has been postponed, according to a statement issued Thursday by the Iowa Department of Public Safety (DPS).

The Iowa DPS said it will honor officers with virtual observances during National Police Week, May 11-16, and will gather safely in person with state of Iowa leadership, law-enforcement partners, families and the public once the crisis passes.

“When the future becomes more certain, and Iowa guidelines permit, DPS will begin to make plans to honor this year’s fallen men and women with an official ceremony recognizing their service, which they so rightfully deserve,” the DPS statement said.